What legal document creates a lien against real property?

A mortgage is the legal document that creates a lien against real property. When a borrower obtains a loan to purchase real estate, the mortgage secures the loan by placing a lien on the property. This means that if the borrower fails to repay the loan, the lender has the legal right to foreclose on the property and recover the owed amount through the sale of the property.

The lien ensures that the lender has a financial interest in the property until the mortgage is paid in full. This legal mechanism protects the lender's investment in the property, thereby facilitating the financial transaction necessary for purchasing real estate.

In contrast, a title deed, while essential to proving ownership of the property, does not create a lien. A bill of sale is typically used for personal property transactions rather than real estate. Additionally, a land lease involves a contract that allows one party to use land owned by another for a specified period, but it does not create a lien against the property itself.